The Los Angeles Lakers are absolutely buzzing, still scrambling to shore up some major positional needs before the season even tips off. They’ve been on a relentless hunt for a starting power forward and a rock-solid center, and let me tell you, their focus has been locked on one name: Jonathan Kuminga. This isn’t new, either; it’s no secret the Lakers and Kuminga have had mutual interest for what feels like ages, with the organization working hard behind the scenes for his commitment.
The Kuminga Chase: A Summer-Long Saga
NBA reporter Evan Sidery even confirmed it, writing, “There is mutual free agent interest between Jonathan Kuminga and the Lakers, per Jovan Buha. Los Angeles continues to work behind the scenes to secure Kuminga’s commitment as their new wing addition.” The guy was on a $46 million contract last season, a serious player, and getting him would finally put an end to this crazy summer-long pursuit that’s just dragged on. But even if they land Kuminga to fill that starting power forward spot, they’re not fully confident in their big man depth. The Athletic’s Dan Woike reported that “The Lakers are still monitoring the market for big men, team sources told The Athletic.” They’ve got Walker Kessler and Kevon Looney at center, and Mamukelashvili can play there too, but clearly, they’re still looking for more. Their roster is full, so any move would need to be a trade or a signing if space opens up.
A Proposed Mega Deal That Shakes Up the League
Enter SI’s Rohan Roman, who cooked up a three-team trade proposal that would tackle both of the Lakers’ main problems. In this massive swap: the Hawks would get Myles Turner and three future second round picks from the Lakers (2031, 2032, 2033). Milwaukee would land Corey Kispert, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia, a 2027 second round pick from Atlanta, a top eight protected 2029 first round pick from Atlanta, a 2029 second round pick from Atlanta via Cleveland, and another 2033 second round pick from Atlanta. And the Lakers? They would finally bag Jonathan Kuminga and add Jericho Sims. This is exactly what they need! Kuminga slides right into that starting power forward role, and Sims gives them an athletic, reliable option in the frontcourt for backup center.
Landing both of these guys would seriously beef up the Lakers’ depth as they gear up to compete hard in the Western Conference. Finally getting Kuminga means that whole saga, which has gone on much longer than anyone expected, would be DONE. This kind of move isn’t just about filling a spot, it’s about making a statement in the West, and it definitely looks like the Lakers are ready to do just that.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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